The world of NFL coaching has never been more lucrative. Winning games and, more importantly, Super Bowls has become a direct route to some of the biggest paychecks in sports. NFL teams are willing to break the bank for the right man at the helm, and in 2024, these coaches are raking in millions. Andy Reid, Sean Payton, and Mike Tomlin top the list of the highest-paid NFL coaches, with each securing deals worth more than many star players. As wins continue to flow in, their bank accounts are swelling. Let’s take a closer look at who’s cashing in big.
5. Sean McVay, Los Angeles Rams – $15 million
Sean McVay’s meteoric rise in the NFL coaching ranks is nothing short of remarkable. At just 30, he became the youngest head coach in modern NFL history. A few years later, McVay made history again by becoming the youngest coach to win a Super Bowl when he led the Rams to victory in 2021.
Despite an enticing $100 million offer from Amazon to transition into broadcasting, McVay chose to stay on the sidelines, continuing to coach the Rams for $15 million annually. His ability to adapt and innovate has cemented him as one of the NFL’s premier coaches.
4. Jim Harbaugh, Los Angeles Chargers – $16 million
Jim Harbaugh made a dramatic return to the NFL in 2024 after leading the Michigan Wolverines to a national championship. The Los Angeles Chargers snatched him up with a five-year deal worth $16 million annually. Harbaugh’s NFL coaching career began with the San Francisco 49ers, where he enjoyed success, including a Super Bowl appearance.
Harbaugh’s winning pedigree and reputation for building tough, competitive teams made him a prime target for NFL franchises, and his recent college success only added to his allure. The Chargers are banking on his ability to lead them to the top.
3. Mike Tomlin, Pittsburgh Steelers – $16 million
Mike Tomlin has been a model of consistency since taking over the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2007. Despite having no prior head coaching experience, Tomlin led the Steelers to a Super Bowl win in just his second season and has since become one of the most respected figures in the league.
Under his guidance, Pittsburgh has won seven AFC North titles and secured one Super Bowl. His leadership and steady hand have earned him a contract extension worth $16 million annually. Tomlin’s ability to keep the Steelers competitive year after year, regardless of roster turnover, proves why he’s among the NFL’s elite.
2. Sean Payton, Denver Broncos – $18 million
Sean Payton made a remarkable comeback to coaching in 2023 when he signed with the Denver Broncos. After a successful 15-year stint with the New Orleans Saints, which included a Super Bowl victory in 2009, Payton stepped away from coaching in 2021. But the Broncos couldn’t resist offering him a five-year, $18 million-per-year deal to lead their team.
Payton’s ability to turn teams into contenders has made him a highly sought-after coach. He transformed the Saints from perennial underachievers into Super Bowl champions and now looks to replicate that success with the Broncos.
1. Andy Reid, Kansas City Chiefs – $20 million
Andy Reid has silenced his critics in recent years, proving that he can not only win the big game but dominate it. Known for his offensive genius and love of cheeseburgers, Reid has become an icon in Kansas City. His partnership with Patrick Mahomes, one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in NFL history, has brought three Super Bowl victories in the last five years.
Reid’s journey wasn’t always easy. Before he became a three-time Super Bowl winner, he faced criticism for his 1-6 record in conference championship games and Super Bowls. However, those days are long gone. Reid is now the highest-paid coach in the NFL, with a five-year extension worth $20 million annually. He also became the first coach to win 100 games with two different teams—both the Eagles and the Chiefs. Reid’s 289 career wins (including playoffs) rank fourth all-time.
Rising Salaries And Young Coaches Taking Over
NFL coaching salaries have skyrocketed in recent years, with more and more teams willing to pay top dollar to secure coaching talent. Ten coaches are now earning at least $9 million a year, with Dan Campbell and Mike Macdonald leading the charge of younger, highly-paid coaches.
Teams are also looking for fresh blood. The 2024 season sees 17 head coaches aged 45 or younger, including new hires like Mike Macdonald, Jerod Mayo, and Brian Callahan. Despite their relative youth, some coaches, like Macdonald and Ryans, are already earning big bucks, with Macdonald securing a $9 million-a-year deal with the Seahawks.
The Belichick And Carroll Era Ends
While the coaching world is ushering in younger faces, two legendary names—Bill Belichick and Pete Carroll—have exited the stage. Both coaches, who were staples of NFL sidelines for decades, were shown the door after the 2023 season. Belichick’s $25 million salary made him the highest-paid coach ever, but it wasn’t enough to save his job after a difficult season. Similarly, Carroll earned $15 million annually but was replaced as the Seahawks sought a younger voice.
